What's in a $900 Face Cream Anyway?

Ever entertained the idea of spending half your paycheck on a moisturizer? Before you hand over your plastic, find out what makes expensive creams so pricey

Doctor-Designed: ReVive Intensité Crème Lustre, $375 for 2 ouncesThe Research: ReVive was created by Harvard-educated plastic surgeon Gregory Bays Brown, MD, who wanted to help his patients achieve the dewy, glowing skin they could never get with surgery. The cornerstone of all ReVive products is Nobel Prize-winning technology called RES (Renewal Epidermal Science). Brown first began working with epidermal growth factor when he was treating burn patients and later came up with RES, which is a complicated cocktail of bioengineered molecules.

The Ingredients: Like all ReVive products, this moisturizer contains RES. But unlike most moisturizers, it contains enzymes to gently exfoliate the skin. It also has light-reflecting particles that make skin look instantly prettier.

The Packaging: A no-frills white and silver jar.

Our Take: "It feels rich without being too heavy. When I apply it at night, I notice that my skin looks better -- softer and brighter -- in the morning." -- Dawn Davis, NYC Beauty Editor

No, no, no. ALL of these expensive creams have jar packaging. Even if these including miraculous antioxidants they would be void after exposure to oxygen. Not to mention the constant dipping your fingers into the jar exposing bacteria to the solution. The only true miracle ingredient is retinol, which you need to use meticulously, along with a hefty dosage of SPF to prevent further damage. Otherwise you need to see a plastic surgeon for more dramatic results.

Okay, I admit I love my creams but there is no way I would pay anything near nine hundred. Eating healthy and applying a good lotion and lots of water will do much more for you. Plus you will have a lot more money to go out dancing with. See, cheaper and better for you.